Following national guidance we are open to all referrals offering initial assessment appointments and follow up sessions
on the telephone or through digital platforms. For advice on coping with COVID-19 please read our advice page
here.
A priority service is also being offered to all NHS and Social Care workers. Please click
here to get in touch.

Coping with anxiety during the coronavirus outbreak

TALKWORKS are here to help

Due to the global COVID-19 outbreak we’re currently living through unprecedented times of change and uncertainty. As a result, many people are experiencing concerns and worries for the future, not knowing what is around the corner while being advised to self-isolate from each other brings on further shared apprehension and concern.

For those that already experience stress and anxiety, the coronavirus is likely to be creating further worries in your life and triggering symptoms that you may already be aware of.

And for those that may not have had anxiety issues in the past, the widespread impact of the outbreak could be causing you to experience symptoms of anxiety or panic for the first time. Particularly if you have friends and family that are vulnerable to the virus or those that have been affected by losing work or employment.

Anxiety thrives on the unknown and events or circumstances that are outside of our control that could end badly. The more our brain dwells on the negative issues of a situation the harder it becomes to think rationally; these thoughts can become overwhelming resulting in signs of panic and fear.

In times like now where mass media is so prevalent it may seem hard to avoid, and where traditional methods of face to face communication are being discouraged how can we cope and manage our anxiety during the coronavirus outbreak and in self-isolation?

Mental health advice for self-isolation

It’s not unusual to feel stressed and confused during a crisis, that’s why it’s so important to communicate with the people closest to you, through whatever means that you can. When self-isolating keep in touch with close friends and your family through phone calls, messages and video calls, a friendly face can really help.

If you’re self-isolating, keep maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Your daily routines may look quite different but that doesn’t mean your diet and sleep patterns need to suffer. Keep up your exercise, there are many exercises you can do indoors including online Yoga and Pilates classes, even cleaning the house can get you up and active.

Dealing with your emotions through alcohol, drugs or smoking doesn’t help. If you feel overwhelmed by feelings of anxiety, talk to your friends and family, or a health worker like the team at TALKWORKS. We’re here to help and to start a conversation simply fill out the referral form below.

Limit how much news you read. It’s important to stay in the loop with the news, however if the messages coming out of the media are causing your concerns then limiting your exposure can help. Sign out of social media news channels and notifications on your phone and stay in touch with developments less regularly. Choosing one reliable source of news can filter out a lot of misinformation and potential scaremongering.

Draw on your previous life experience. Everyone has managed tough times in the past, although right now may seem different, you have likely built up skills to that can help manage your emotions during the challenging time of this outbreak.

If you are worried and need further advice on coping with anxiety surrounding the COVID-19 outbreak or managing your mental health during self-isolation please get in touch. Please also see the latest NHS advice on COVID-19 by clicking here >>

Your experience with us

Your feedback matters

I could not fault the service I received. I was listened to and given so many different resources to help my anxiety and depression. I was so very low a year ago but with the amazing support from my therapist I feel more and more myself every day. Thank you TALKWORKS.

“The therapy gently supported me to both understand and come to terms with my diagnosis and how it has impacted on me as a person for so many years. I felt I could be open and honest in a very safe space. I not only feel better, I understand myself better too.”

I was apprehensive about using the service thinking I wasn't "bad" enough but a talk to the cardiac group by a TALKWORKS practitioner gave me confidence to self-refer. I was referred with respect and taken seriously throughout, felt safe and was given tools and advise to help myself take control of my situation.

Mood Quiz

How are you feeling?

Take our Mood Quiz to help you understand if how you’re feeling is affecting your mental
wellbeing. The self-assessment quiz is not designed to replace a consultation with your GP
or other healthcare professional. However, if after taking the quiz you have concerns about
your mental wellbeing please get in touch with us and we can help you or alternatively, contact
your GP for an appointment.